(Newswire.net — May 6, 2013) Denver, Colorado — Recently, the Rocky Mountain Chapter of myTeamTriumph completed their very first wheelchair division race. On April 14, 2013 they led the start of the Fourth Annual Frank Shorter Race4Kid’s Health 5K and Healthy Kids Expo at the 1stBank Center located in Denver. Presented by Bellco Credit Union, the race proceeds benefited Healthy Learning Paths, a non-profit partnership that teaches the critical connections between health and learning for children.
MyTeamTriumph is a local non-profit organization with a Chapter in Boulder, Colorado. They provide athletic ride along programs for children, teens, adults and veterans with disabilities that would otherwise prevent them from being able to experience road racing and eventually triathlons.
MyTeamTriumph provides everything participants need to complete a race, including boats, harnesses, trailers and chairs. Their contributions enable disabled people of all ages to enjoy the exhilaration and sense of accomplishment from finishing a race or triathlon.
The cold weather didn’t stop the myTeamTriumph participants from having a great time. Each “Captain”- the young race particpant, personally received a medal from Frank Shorter, a gold medalist in the 1972 summer Olympics.
MyTeamTriumph is based upon the story of Team Hoyt, which consists of father and son duo Rick and Dick Hoyt. Rick was born in 1962. As a result of oxygen deprivation to his brain, he was diagnosed shortly after birth as a spastic quadriplegic with cerebral palsy. Dick and Judy, Rick’s mother, noticed the look in Rick’s eyes, and his astute manner convinced them that he was processing much more than the grim outlook the doctors had prepared them for. In 1972, a computer was created the enabled Rick to finally convey his thoughts and feelings. This led to his request in 1977 to run a marathon with his father’s help, which was a benefit run for a lacrosse player who had been paralyzed. After their first race together, Rick told his father “ “Dad, when I’m running, it feels like I’m not handicapped.”
The benefit run was just the beginning of what has become over 1,000 races completed. During triathlons, Dick pulls Rick in a raft behind him, bikes with Rick specially designed 2 person bike, and runs with Rick seated in a custom made running chair. More information about Team Hoyt can be seen on this YouTube video.
The Boulder Chapter of myTeamTriumph is seeking donations for their organization to be able to provide services to local children, teens and adults. Because of their non-profit status, they rely heavily on donations from their generous supporters. To donate to their cause, please visit myTeamTriumph’s website.
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Contact:
myTeamTriumph
http://www.mtt-rockymountain.org/
myttrockymountain@gmail.com
Press release issued by Mile High Mobile Marketing